Muslims across the world are marking the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. In Tunisia, Sunday is the first day of the Eid ul-Fitr holiday. Worshippers walked to one of the oldest mosques in the capital city Tunis and prayed for peace in the North African country.
This gathering in the old Bab El Khadra neighbourhood takes place in the capital city Tunis. It is known in the North African state as the traditional Kharja. Tunisians are celebrating Eid Al-Fitr that marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.
Tunisian Resident, Houssem Mohamed, said: “On the Eid morning, after dawn, we meet at the gate of the old town then we walk together chanting prayers and calling on people to join the march for peace. It’s a religious and a cultural event.”
People come from many countries and cities to attend this kharja. Since 2011, this area has regained its past glory and splendour.
“I live abroad. I used to watch this event on social networks. This year, I came to take part in this extraordinary walk in traditional clothes. This tradition is unique. It only happens in the capital city Tunis,” said Walid Rahman, a Tunis resident.
‘After walking across the city centre and inviting people to join the celebration, worshippers are now heading to the Sahab Ettabaa Mosque to perform the Eid al Fitr Prayer.
The lovely Sahab Ettabaa mosque is an architectural marvel. It is one of the most appreciated places in Tunisia and the Muslim world.
A 200 year old mosque, it was built by a Tunisian architect. It is the symbol of diversity in our country. It’s a mixed architectural style. It is at the same time Tunisian and European but also Arab, Mediterranean and African.
After the prayer, people listen carefully to the preacher. A moderate man who urges worshippers to pardon, to forgive and to pay a visit to their relatives on Eid El-Fitr.
Abderrahmane Boukhari, a Tunis resident, says: “We do not sleep on the eve of the Eid. We have fun until the morning then we go to pray. We spend the day with our friends and families. It’s the best occasion for people to come closer together. It’s time to forgive others. This is our religion.”
At the end of the Eid sermon, people smile at each other and foster gestures of closeness. In the meantime, children are observing adults and learning about tolerance and co-existence in Islam.
